U.S. patent application number 14/712102 was filed with the patent office on 2016-01-07 for regenerative air-conditioning apparatus and method of controlling the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to LG ELECTRONICS INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is LG Electronics Inc.. Invention is credited to Seunghyun JUNG, Heewoong PARK, Noma PARK.
Application Number | 20160003499 14/712102 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53510770 |
Filed Date | 2016-01-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160003499 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
PARK; Heewoong ; et
al. |
January 7, 2016 |
REGENERATIVE AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING
THE SAME
Abstract
A regenerative air-conditioning apparatus includes a thermal
energy storage unit, first and second valve devices for switching a
flow direction of a refrigerant compressed in a compressor, a first
branch part disposed on an outlet-side of the compressor, the first
branch dividing the refrigerant compressed in the compressor to
flow into first and second valve devices or the thermal energy
storage unit, a first storage unit connection tube extending from
the first branch part to the thermal energy storage unit, a
condensed refrigerant tube extending from an outdoor heat exchanger
to an indoor heat exchanger, a second storage unit connection tube
extending from the thermal energy storage unit to the condensed
refrigerant tube, and a first expansion device disposed in the
first storage unit connection tube to selectively restrict a flow
of the refrigerant from the first branch part to the thermal energy
storage unit.
Inventors: |
PARK; Heewoong; (Seoul,
KR) ; PARK; Noma; (Seoul, KR) ; JUNG;
Seunghyun; (Seoul, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LG Electronics Inc. |
Seoul |
|
KR |
|
|
Assignee: |
LG ELECTRONICS INC.
Seoul
KR
|
Family ID: |
53510770 |
Appl. No.: |
14/712102 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/115 ;
62/160 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25B 41/04 20130101;
F25B 49/02 20130101; F25B 13/00 20130101; F25B 41/003 20130101;
F25B 2400/24 20130101; F25B 2313/021 20130101; F25B 2313/02742
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25B 13/00 20060101
F25B013/00; F25B 49/02 20060101 F25B049/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 7, 2014 |
KR |
10-2014-0084386 |
Claims
1. A regenerative air-conditioning apparatus including a
compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger,
and a thermal energy storage unit, the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus comprising: a first valve device for
switching a flow direction of refrigerant compressed in the
compressor; a second valve device for switching a flow direction of
refrigerant compressed in the compressor; a first branch part
disposed on an outlet-side of the compressor, the first branch part
dividing refrigerant compressed in the compressor to flow toward
the first valve device, the second valve device, and the thermal
energy storage unit; a first storage unit connection tube extending
from the first branch part to the thermal energy storage unit; a
condensed refrigerant tube extending from the outdoor heat
exchanger to the indoor heat exchanger; and a second storage unit
connection tube extending from the thermal energy storage unit to
the condensed refrigerant tube.
2. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
1, further comprising a first expansion device disposed in the
first storage unit connection tube to selectively restrict a flow
of refrigerant from the first branch part to the thermal energy
storage unit.
3. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
2, further comprising a second expansion device disposed in the
second storage unit connection tube to selectively restrict a flow
of refrigerant into the thermal energy storage unit or a flow of
refrigerant discharged from the thermal energy storage unit.
4. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
3, wherein at least one of the first expansion device and the
second expansion device comprises an electronic expansion
valve.
5. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
1, further comprising: a low-pressure tube extending from the first
storage unit connection tube to a suction-side of the compressor to
allow evaporated refrigerant to flow therethrough; and a flow rate
adjustment valve disposed in the low-pressure tube to selectively
restrict a flow of refrigerant in the low-pressure tube.
6. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
5, further comprising: a first connection tube extending from the
first valve device and configured to guide refrigerant compressed
in the compressor into the first valve device; a second connection
tube extending from the first valve device and configured to guide
refrigerant introduced into the first valve device through the
first connection tube into the outdoor heat exchanger when a
cooling operation is performed; a third connection tube extending
from the first valve device to the low-pressure tube; and a fourth
connection tube extending from the first valve device and
configured to guide refrigerant introduced into the first valve
device into the indoor heat exchanger.
7. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
6, further comprising: a fifth connection tube extending from the
second valve device and configured to guide refrigerant compressed
in the compressor into the second valve device; a sixth connection
tube extending from the second valve device and configured to guide
refrigerant introduced into the second valve device through the
fifth connection tube into the outdoor heat exchanger when the
cooling operation is performed; a seventh connection tube extending
from the second valve device to the low-pressure tube; and an
eighth connection tube extending from the second valve device and
configured to guide refrigerant introduced into the second valve
into the indoor heat exchanger.
8. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
7, further comprising a third branch part at which the second
connection tube and the sixth connection tube are combined with
each other.
9. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
7, wherein the fourth connection tube and the eighth connection
tube are connected at a connection point.
10. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
1, wherein the thermal energy storage unit comprises: a case
defining an exterior; an inner tube disposed within the case to
allow the refrigerant to flow therethrough; and a thermal energy
storage medium disposed within the case.
11. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
10, wherein the thermal energy storage medium comprises a phase
change material containing a solution of tetra n-butyl ammonium
bromide [(CH.sub.3(CH.sub.2).sub.3].sub.4NBr (TBAB).
12. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
1, further comprising a second branch part at which the second
storage unit connection tube and the condensed refrigerant tube are
combined with each other.
13. The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according to claim
1, wherein at least one of the first valve device and the second
valve device comprises a four-way valve.
14. A method of controlling a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus including a compressor, first and second valve devices,
an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, a condensed
refrigerant tube connecting the outdoor heat exchanger to the
indoor heat exchanger, a thermal energy storage unit, a first
storage unit connection tube extending from the compressor to the
thermal energy storage unit, a first expansion device disposed in
the first storage unit connection tube, a second storage unit
connection tube extending from the thermal energy storage unit to
the condensed refrigerant tube, and a second expansion device
disposed in a second storage unit connection tube, the method
comprising: determining an operation mode of the first and second
valve devices according to an operation mode of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus; selectively restricting a flow of
refrigerant through the first expansion device; and selectively
restricting a flow of refrigerant through the second expansion
device, wherein when the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus
performs a heat accumulation heating operation, the method further
comprises: operating the outdoor heat exchanger as an evaporator;
operating the indoor heat exchanger as a condenser; and operating
the thermal energy storage unit as a condenser, and wherein when
the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus performs a heat
radiation heating operation, the method further comprises:
operating the outdoor heat exchanger as an evaporator; operating
the indoor heat exchanger as a condenser; and operating the thermal
energy storage unit as an evaporator.
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a cold energy accumulation
cooling operation, the method further comprises: operating the
outdoor heat exchanger as a condenser; operating the indoor heat
exchanger as an evaporator; and operating the thermal energy
storage unit as an evaporator, and wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a cold energy discharge cooling
operation, the method further comprises: operating the outdoor heat
exchanger as a condenser; operating the indoor heat exchanger as an
evaporator; and operating the thermal energy storage unit as a
condenser.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a heat accumulation heating
operation or a cold energy discharge cooling operation, the method
further comprises: opening the second expansion device to introduce
the refrigerant condensed in the thermal energy storage unit into
the condensed refrigerant tube, and wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a heat radiation heating
operation or a cold energy accumulation cooling operation, the
method further comprises: opening the second expansion device by a
preset opening degree to decompress the refrigerant.
17. The method according to claim 14, wherein when the first
expansion device is opened, at least one portion of the refrigerant
compressed in the compressor is introduced into the thermal energy
storage unit through the first storage unit connection tube.
18. The method according to claim 14, wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a cooling operation, the method
further comprises: placing the first and second valve devices in a
first operation mode in which a first connection tube and a second
connection tube of the first valve device communicate with each
other, and a third connection tube and a fourth connection tube of
the first valve device communicate with each other, and a fifth
connection tube and a sixth connection tube of the second valve
device communicate with each other, and a seventh connection tube
and an eighth connection tube of the second valve device
communicate with each other.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a heating operation, the method
further comprises: placing the first and second valve devices in a
second operation mode in which the first connection tube and the
fourth connection tube of the first valve device communicate with
each other, and the second connection tube and the third connection
tube of the first valve device communicate with each other, and the
fifth connection tube and the eighth connection tube of the second
valve device communicate with each other, and the sixth connection
tube and the seventh connection tube of the second valve device
communicate with each other.
20. The method according to claim 19, wherein when the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus performs a defrosting operation, the
method further comprises: placing the first and second valve
devices in a third operation mode in which the first connection
tube and the second connection tube of the first valve device
communicate with each other, and the third connection tube and the
fourth connection tube of the first valve device communicate with
each other, and the fifth connection tube and the eighth connection
tube of the second valve device communicate with each other, and
the sixth connection tube and the seventh connection tube of the
second valve device communicate with each other.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119
to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2014-0084386, filed on Jul. 7,
2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a regenerative
air-conditioner apparatus and a method of controlling the same.
[0003] Air-conditioning apparatuses are apparatuses for cooling or
heating an indoor space by heat-exchanging a refrigerant flowing
into a heat-exchange cycle with outdoor air.
[0004] In detail, such an air-conditioning apparatus includes a
compressor for compressing a refrigerant, an outdoor heat exchanger
in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with outdoor air, and an
indoor heat exchanger in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with
indoor air.
[0005] The air-conditioning apparatus may include a heat
accumulation bath. Thus, this air-conditioning apparatus is called
a "regenerative air-conditioning apparatus". The heat accumulation
bath includes a case defining an exterior thereof and a heat
storage medium filled into the case. The refrigerant may exchange
heat with the heat storage medium while passing through the heat
accumulation bath. In this process, heat may be accumulated into
the heat storage medium or be radiated from the heat storage
medium. Thus, cold (cold energy) or heat may be stored in the heat
storage medium.
[0006] For example, the air-conditioning apparatus may store cold
energy or heat in the heat accumulation bath by using inexpensive
midnight electricity. Thus, when an electric fee is expensive, or
power is lacking, the air-conditioning apparatus may perform
cooling or heating by using the cold energy or heat that is stored
in the heat accumulation bath.
[0007] According to prior patent document Registration Number
10-1325319, a control method is complicated, and power consumption
is high. Also, in the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus
according to the prior patent document, it may be difficult to
perform a defrosting operation when the heating operation is
performed.
SUMMARY
[0008] Embodiments provide a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus that is capable of operating by using dual heat sources
and dual loads through a thermal energy storage unit, such as a
heat accumulation bath.
[0009] In one embodiment, a regenerative air-conditioning apparatus
including a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat
exchanger, and a heat storage bath, includes first and second valve
devices for switching a flow direction of a refrigerant compressed
in the compressor; a first branch part disposed on an outlet-side
of the compressor, the first branch dividing the refrigerant
compressed in the compressor to flow into first and second valve
devices or the heat storage bath; a first storage bath connection
tube extending from the first branch part to the heat storage bath;
a condensed refrigerant tube extending from the outdoor heat
exchanger to the indoor heat exchanger; a second storage bath
connection tube extending from the heat storage bath to the
condensed refrigerant tube; and a first expansion device disposed
in the first storage bath connection tube to selectively restrict a
flow of the refrigerant from the first branch part to the heat
storage bath.
[0010] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a second expansion device disposed in the second storage
bath connection tube to selectively restrict a flow of the
refrigerant into the heat storage bath or a flow of the refrigerant
discharged from the heat storage bath.
[0011] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a low-pressure tube extending from the first storage
connection tube to a suction-side of the compressor to allow the
evaporated refrigerant to flow therethrough; and a flow rate
adjustment valve disposed in the low-pressure tube to selectively
restrict a flow of the refrigerant in the low-pressure tube.
[0012] The heat storage bath may include a case defining an
exterior; an inner tube disposed in the case to allow the
refrigerant to flow therethrough; and a thermal energy storage
medium filled into the case.
[0013] The thermal energy storage medium may include a solid-liquid
slurry obtained by cooling a tetra n-butyl ammonium bromide
[(CH.sub.3(CH.sub.2).sub.3].sub.4NBr (TBAB) solution that is a
mixture of water and TBAB.
[0014] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a second branch part at which the second storage bath
connection tube and the condensed refrigerant tube are combined
with each other.
[0015] The first or second valve device may include a four-way
valve.
[0016] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a first connection tube guiding the refrigerant compressed
in the compressor into the first valve device; a second connection
tube guiding the refrigerant introduced into the first valve device
through the first connection tube into the outdoor heat exchanger
when a cooling operation is performed; a third connection tube
extending form the first valve device to the low-pressure tube; and
a fourth connection tube guiding the refrigerant introduced into
the first valve device through the first connection tube into the
indoor heat exchanger.
[0017] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a fifth connection tube guiding the refrigerant compressed
in the compressor into the second valve device; a sixth connection
tube guiding the refrigerant introduced into the second valve
device through the fifth connection tube into the outdoor heat
exchanger when the cooling operation is performed; a seventh
connection tube extending from the second valve device to the
low-pressure tube; and an eighth connection tube guiding the
refrigerant introduced into the second valve device through the
fifth connection tube into the indoor heat exchanger.
[0018] The regenerative air-conditioning apparatus may further
include a third branch part at which the second connection tube and
the sixth connection tube are combined with each other.
[0019] The fourth connection tube may have one side connected to
one point of the eighth connection tube.
[0020] The first or second expansion device may include an
electronic expansion valve.
[0021] In another embodiment, a method of controlling a
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus including a compressor,
first and second valve devices, an outdoor heat exchanger, an
indoor heat exchanger, a condensed refrigerant tube connecting the
outdoor heat exchanger to the indoor heat exchanger, and a heat
storage bath. includes determining an operation mode of the first
and second valve devices according to an operation mode of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus; selectively restricting a
flow of refrigerant by using a first expansion device disposed in a
first storage bath connection tube extending from the compressor to
the heat storage bath; and selectively restricting a flow of the
refrigerant by using a second expansion device disposed in a second
storage bath connection tube extending from the heat storage bath
to the condensed refrigerant tube, wherein, in a heat accumulation
or radiation heating operation mode of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus, at least one of the outdoor heat
exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger, and the heat storage bath
serves as a condenser, and the rest serves as an evaporator.
[0022] In a cold energy accumulation or discharge cooling operation
mode of the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus, at least one
of the outdoor heat exchanger, the indoor heat exchanger, and the
heat storage bath may serve as a condenser, and the rest may serve
as an evaporator.
[0023] When the first expansion device is opened, at least one
portion of the refrigerant compressed in the compressor may be
introduced into the heat storage bath through the first storage
bath connection tube.
[0024] In the heat accumulation heating operation mode or cold
energy discharge cooling operation mode of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus, the second expansion device may be
opened to introduce the refrigerant condensed in the heat storage
bath into the condensed refrigerant tube, and in the heat radiation
heating operation mode or cold energy accumulation cooling
operation mode of the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus, the
second expansion device may be opened by a preset opening degree to
decompress the refrigerant.
[0025] When the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus performs
the cooling operation mode, the operation mode of the first and
second valve devices may include a first operation mode in which a
first connection tube and a second connection tube of the first
valve device communicate with each other, and a third connection
tube and a fourth connection tube of the first valve device
communicate with each other, and a fifth connection tube and a
sixth connection tube of the second valve device communicate with
each other, and a seventh connection tube and an eighth connection
tube of the second valve device communicate with each other.
[0026] When the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus performs
the heat accumulation or radiation heating operation mode, the
operation mode of the first and second valve devices may include a
second operation mode in which the first connection tube and the
fourth connection tube of the first valve device communicate with
each other, and the second connection tube and the third connection
tube of the first valve device communicate with each other, and the
fifth connection tube and the eighth connection tube of the second
valve device communicate with each other, and the sixth connection
tube and the seventh connection tube of the second valve device
communicate with each other.
[0027] When the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus performs a
defrosting heating operation mode, the operation mode of the first
and second valve devices may include a third operation mode in
which the first connection tube and the second connection tube of
the first valve device communicate with each other, and the third
connection tube and the fourth connection tube of the first valve
device communicate with each other, and the fifth connection tube
and the eighth connection tube of the second valve device
communicate with each other, and the sixth connection tube and the
seventh connection tube of the second valve device communicate with
each other.
[0028] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the
accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features
will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 is a system view of a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus according to a first embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a system view illustrating a flow of a refrigerant
when a normal cooling operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 3 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a heat accumulation cooling operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 4 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a heat radiation cooling operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a normal heating operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a heat accumulation heating operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a heat radiation heating operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a defrosting heating operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0037] FIGS. 9 and 10 are flowcharts illustrating a method of
controlling the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according
to the first embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a system view of a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus according to a second embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0039] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described with
reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention may, however,
be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as
being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, that
alternate embodiments included in other retrogressive inventions or
falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will
fully convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the
art.
[0040] FIG. 1 is a system view of a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus according to a first embodiment.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus 10 (hereinafter, referred to an air-conditioning
apparatus) according to a first embodiment includes a compressor
110 for compressing a refrigerant and first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 for switching a flow direction of the
refrigerant compressed in the compressor 110. The first and second
valve devices 120 and 130 are connected in parallel to each other
at an outlet-side of the compressor 110.
[0042] A gas/liquid separator 185 is disposed at a suction-side of
the compressor 110 for separating a gaseous portion of the
refrigerant from a gas/liquid mixture of refrigerant, in order to
supply only the gaseous refrigerant into the compressor 110.
[0043] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 includes a first branch
part 115 disposed between the compressor 110 and the first and
second valve devices 120 and 130 to divide the refrigerant
compressed in the compressor 110 to flow into the first and second
valve devices 120 and 130 or a first expansion device 175 that will
be described later.
[0044] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 includes a first
connection tube 121 extending from the first branch part 115 to the
first valve device 120 and a fifth connection tube 131 extending
from the first branch part 115 to the second valve device 130. The
first connection tube 121 may be understood as an inflow tube of
the first valve device 120, and the fifth connection tube 131 may
be understood as an inflow tube of the second valve device 130.
[0045] Each of the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 may
include a four way valve having one inflow part and three discharge
parts.
[0046] The air-conditioning apparatus further include three
connection tubes 122, 123, and 124 connected to the first valve
device 120. The three connection tubes 122, 123, and 124 include a
second connection tube 122, a third connection tube 123, and a
fourth connection tube 124.
[0047] The first valve device 120 may operate to allow the
refrigerant introduced into the first valve device 120 through the
first connection tube 121 to be discharged into one connection tube
of the second to fourth connection tubes 122, 123, and 124.
[0048] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further includes three
connection tubes 132, 133, and 134 connected to the second valve
device 130. The three connection tubes 132, 133, and 134 include a
sixth connection tube 132, a seventh connection tube 133, and an
eighth connection tube 134.
[0049] The second valve device 130 may operate to allow the
refrigerant introduced into the second valve device 130 through the
fifth connection tube 131 to be discharged into one connection tube
of the sixth to eighth connection tubes 132, 133, and 134.
[0050] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further includes a third
branch part 167 connected to the second connection tube 122 and the
sixth connection tube 132. Thus, the refrigerant of the second
connection tube 122 and the refrigerant of the sixth connection
tube 132 may be mixed with each other in the third branch part
167.
[0051] A second check valve 132a may be disposed in the sixth
connection tube 132. The second check valve 132a guides a flow of
the refrigerant from the second valve device 130 to the third
branch part 167 and restricts an opposite flow of the refrigerant,
i.e., a flow from the third branch part 167 to the second valve
device 130.
[0052] The fourth connection tube 124 may have one side connected
to one point of the eighth connection tube 134. The refrigerant of
the fourth connection tube 124 may be mixed with the refrigerant of
the eighth connection tube 134 and then introduced into the indoor
heat exchanger 140.
[0053] A first check valve 124a may be disposed in the fourth
connection tube 124. The first check valve 124a guides a flow of
the refrigerant from the first valve device 120 to the eighth
connection tube 134 and restricts an opposite flow of the
refrigerant, i.e., a flow from the eighth connection tube 134 to
the first valve device 120.
[0054] The third connection tube 123 and the seventh connection
tube 133 may be connected to a low-pressure tube 180 that will be
described later.
[0055] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further include an indoor
heat exchanger 140 in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with
indoor air and an indoor fan 145 disposed on one side of the indoor
heat exchanger 140 to generate an air flow. The indoor heat
exchanger 140 may be connected to the eighth connection tube
134.
[0056] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further include an outdoor
heat exchanger 160 in which the refrigerant exchanges heat with
outdoor air and an outdoor fan 165 disposed on one side of the
outdoor heat exchanger 160 to generate an air flow. A tube
extending from the third branch part 167 to the outdoor heat
exchanger 160 may be connected to the outdoor heat exchanger
160.
[0057] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further include a
condensed refrigerant tube 150 extending from the indoor heat
exchanger 140 to the outdoor heat exchanger 160. The condensed
refrigerant tube 150 is disposed between the indoor heat exchanger
140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 160. An indoor expansion device
148 and a main expansion device 153 may be disposed in the
condensed refrigerant tube 150.
[0058] The indoor expansion device 148 together with the indoor
heat exchanger 140 may be disposed within the indoor unit. The
indoor expansion device 148 may decompress the refrigerant when the
air-conditioning apparatus performs the cooling operation. Also,
the main expansion device 153 may decompress the refrigerant when
the air-conditioning apparatus performs the heating operation.
[0059] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further include a bypass
tube 154 connected to the condensed refrigerant tube 150 to allow
the refrigerant to bypass the main expansion device 153, and a
bypass check valve 155 disposed in the bypass tube 154 to guide the
refrigerant of the bypass tube 154 in one direction. The bypass
tube 154 may have one side connected to one point of the condensed
refrigerant tube 150 and the other side connected to the other
point of the condensed refrigerant tube 150.
[0060] When the air-conditioning apparatus 10 performs the cooling
operation, at least one portion of the refrigerant passing through
the outdoor heat exchanger 160 may bypass the main expansion device
153 to flow into the bypass tube 154. On the other hand, when the
air-conditioning apparatus 10 performs the heating operation, the
flow of the refrigerant into the bypass tube 154 may be restricted
by the bypass check valve 155.
[0061] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further includes a heat
storage bath 200 acting as a thermal energy storage unit for
storing heat energy or cold energy of the refrigerant and radiating
the stored heat energy or cold energy. The heat storage bath 200
may function as a condenser or evaporator according to an operation
mode of the air-conditioning apparatus.
[0062] The heat storage bath 200 includes a case 201 defining an
exterior thereof, a thermal energy storage medium 210, sometimes
referred to as a heat storage medium, filled into the case 201, and
an inner tube 220 disposed in the case 201 to allow the refrigerant
to flow therethrough. The inner tube 220 may be bent several times
within the case 201. Thus, a heat-exchange area between the
refrigerant flowing into the inner tube 220 and the thermal energy
storage medium 210 may increase.
[0063] The thermal energy storage medium 210 may exchange heat with
the refrigerant flowing into the inner tube 220 to store the cold
energy or heat energy. If the thermal energy storage medium 210
stores the heat energy, the heat storage bath 200 may be called a
"heat accumulation bath", and the thermal energy storage medium 210
may be called a "heat accumulation material". If the thermal energy
storage medium 210 stores the cold energy, the heat storage bath
200 may be called a "cold energy accumulation bath", and the
thermal energy storage medium 210 may be called a "cold energy
accumulation material".
[0064] The thermal energy storage medium 210 includes a phase
change material (PCM) that changes in phase during the
heat-exchange process to store/release heat. The phase change
material may include a slurry of tetra n-butyl ammonium bromide,
[(CH.sub.3(CH.sub.2).sub.3].sub.4NBr (TBAB).
[0065] The slurry TBAB may be solid-liquid slurry obtained by
cooling a TBAB solution that is a mixture of water and TBAB. The
slurry TBAB has a phase change temperature of about 5.degree. C. to
about 12.degree. C.
[0066] The slurry TBAB may have a phase change temperature greater
than that of water (about 0.degree. C.) to improve the heat or cold
energy accumulation function.
[0067] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further includes a first
storage bath connection tube 170 extending from the first branch
part 115 to the heat storage bath 200 and a second storage bath
connection tube 172 extending from the heat storage bath 200 to the
condensed refrigerant tube 150.
[0068] Also, the air-conditioning apparatus 10 further includes a
second branch part 152 connected to the second storage bath
connection tube 172 and the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Thus,
according to the operation mode of the air-conditioning apparatus
10, the refrigerant of the second storage bath connection tube 172
may flow into the condensed refrigerant tube 150 through the second
branch part 152, or the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant
tube 150 may flow into the second storage bath connection tube 172
through the second branch part 152.
[0069] The first expansion device 175 may be disposed in the first
storage bath connection tube 170. The first expansion device 175
may include an electronic expansion valve (EEV) of which an opening
degree is adjustable. For example, the first expansion device 175
may be opened or closed according to the operation mode of the
air-conditioning apparatus 10 to adjust a flow of the
refrigerant.
[0070] A second expansion device 176 may be disposed in the second
storage bath connection tube 172. The second expansion device 176
may include an EEV of which an opening degree is adjustable. For
example, the second expansion device 176 may be opened or closed
according to the operation mode of the air-conditioning apparatus
10 to adjust a flow of the refrigerant or decompress the
refrigerant.
[0071] The air-conditioning apparatus 10 further include a
low-pressure tube 180 extending from the first storage bath
connection tube 170 to a suction-side of the compressor 110, i.e.,
extending to an inlet-side of the gas/liquid separator 185. The
low-pressure tube 180 may be understood as a tube through which the
low-pressure refrigerant flows in the refrigeration cycle. The
refrigerant of the low-pressure tube 180 may be introduced into the
gas/liquid separator 185 to separate a gaseous refrigerant from the
refrigerant. The separated gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned
into the compressor 110.
[0072] A flow rate adjustment valve 174 for adjusting a flow rate
of the refrigerant flowing into the low-pressure tube 180 may be
disposed in the low-pressure tube 180. For example, the flow rate
adjustment valve 174 may include an on/off-controllable solenoid
valve or an opening degree-adjustable EEV.
[0073] Hereinafter, a flow of the refrigerant according to the
operation mode of the air-conditioning apparatus will be described
with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0074] FIG. 2 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a normal cooling operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0075] When the air-conditioning apparatus 10 performs the cooling
operation (a normal cooling operation, a cold energy accumulation
cooling operation, and a cold energy discharge operation), each of
the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 may operate in a
"first operation mode".
[0076] When the first valve device 120 operates in the first
operation mode, the first and second connection tubes 121 and 122
communicate with each other, and the third and fourth connection
tubes 123 and 124 communicate with each other.
[0077] Also, when the second valve device 130 operates in the first
operation mode, the fifth connection tube 131 and the sixth
connection tube 132 communicate with each other, and the seventh
connection tube 133 and the eighth connection tube 134 communicate
with each other.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 2, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first
expansion device 175 is closed to restrict a flow of the
refrigerant from the first branch part 115 to the first storage
bath connection tube 170.
[0079] That is, at least one portion of the compressed refrigerant
is introduced into the first connection tube 121 of the first valve
device 120 and then is discharged into the second connection tube
122 of the first valve device 120. Also, the remaining portion of
the compressed refrigerant is introduced into the fifth connection
tube 131 of the second valve device 130 and then is discharged into
the sixth connection tube 132 of the second valve device 130.
[0080] The refrigerant of the second connection tube 122 and the
refrigerant of the sixth connection tube 132 may be mixed with each
other in the third branch part 167 and then be introduced into the
outdoor heat exchanger 160 and be condensed in the outdoor heat
exchanger 160.
[0081] The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the main
expansion device 153 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough. Also, at least one portion of the refrigerant
of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 may flow into the bypass tube
154 to bypass the main expansion device 153. Thus, pressure drop in
the main expansion device 153 may be prevented.
[0082] The second expansion device 176 may be closed. Thus, a flow
of the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 into the
second storage bath connection tube 172 may be restricted to allow
the refrigerant to flow toward the indoor heat exchanger 140.
Before the refrigerant is introduced into the indoor heat exchanger
140, the refrigerant may be decompressed while passing through the
indoor expansion device 148. Here, the indoor expansion device 148
may be opened by a predetermined opening degree that is enough to
decompress the refrigerant.
[0083] The refrigerant may be evaporated while passing through the
indoor heat exchanger 140, and the evaporated refrigerant may be
introduced into the eighth connection tube 134 of the second valve
device 130 and then be discharged into the seventh connection tube
133. The refrigerant of the seventh connection tube 133 flows into
the low-pressure tube 180 and then be introduced into the
gas/liquid separator 185.
[0084] A gaseous refrigerant of the refrigerant introduced into the
gas/liquid separator 185 may be separated, and the separated
gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned into the compressor 110. Then,
the refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly performed.
[0085] FIG. 3 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when the heat accumulation cooling operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 3, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first
expansion device 175 is closed to restrict a flow of the
refrigerant from the first branch part 115 to the first storage
bath connection tube 170.
[0087] That is, at least one portion of the compressed refrigerant
is introduced into the first connection tube 121 of the first valve
device 120 and then is discharged into the second connection tube
122 of the first valve device 120. Also, the remaining portion of
the compressed refrigerant is introduced into the fifth connection
tube 131 of the second valve device 130 and then is discharged into
the sixth connection tube 132 of the second valve device 130.
[0088] The refrigerant of the second connection tube 122 and the
refrigerant of the sixth connection tube 132 may be mixed with each
other in the third branch part 167 and then be introduced into the
outdoor heat exchanger 160 and be condensed in the outdoor heat
exchanger 160.
[0089] The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the main
expansion device 153 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough. Also, at least one portion of the refrigerant
of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 may flow into the bypass tube
154 to bypass the main expansion device 153.
[0090] The second expansion device 176 is opened to guide at least
one portion of the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube
150 into the second storage bath connection tube 172. Here, the
second expansion device 176 may be opened by a predetermined
opening degree that is enough to decompress the refrigerant.
[0091] The refrigerant decompressed in the second expansion device
176 may be introduced into the heat storage bath 200 and then be
evaporated while exchanging heat with the thermal energy storage
medium 210. Also, while the refrigerant is evaporated, the thermal
energy storage medium 210 may change in phase into a solid state to
storage cold energy.
[0092] The refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 except
for the refrigerant flowing into the second storage bath connection
tube 172 is decompressed in the indoor expansion device 148 and is
evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger 140. The refrigerant
condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 140 flows into the eighth
connection tube 134.
[0093] That is, when the heat accumulation cooling operation is
performed, the outdoor heat exchanger 160 functions as the
condenser, and the heat storage bath 200 and the indoor heat
exchanger 140 function as the evaporator. Thus, the
air-conditioning apparatus 10 may operate by using dual loads.
[0094] The refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 is
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 via the low-pressure
tube 180. Here, the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on or
opened to guide a flow of the refrigerant into the low-pressure
tube 180.
[0095] At least one portion of the refrigerant of the low-pressure
tube 180 is introduced into the first valve device 120 through the
third connection tube 123 and then is discharged through the fourth
connection tube 124. Also, the refrigerant flows into the eighth
connection tube 134 and then is mixed with the refrigerant passing
through the indoor heat exchanger 140 and is introduced into the
gas/liquid separator 185.
[0096] A gaseous refrigerant of the refrigerant introduced into the
gas/liquid separator 185 may be separated, and the separated
gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned into the compressor 110. Then,
the refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly performed.
[0097] FIG. 4 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when the heat radiation cooling operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 4, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first storage bath
connection tube 170 and the first and second valve devices 120 and
130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first expansion device
175 is opened to guide a flow of the refrigerant from the first
branch part 115 to the first storage bath connection tube 170.
[0099] The refrigerant introduced into the first connection tube
121 of the first valve device 120 is discharged into the second
connection tube 122 of the first valve device 120, and the
refrigerant introduced into the fifth connection tube 131 of the
second valve device 130 is discharged into the sixth connection
tube 132 of the second valve device 130.
[0100] The refrigerant of the second connection tube 122 and the
refrigerant of the sixth connection tube 132 may be mixed with each
other in the third branch part 167 and then be introduced into the
outdoor heat exchanger 160 and be condensed in the outdoor heat
exchanger 160.
[0101] The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the main
expansion device 153 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough. Also, at least one portion of the refrigerant
of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 may flow into the bypass tube
154 to bypass the main expansion device 153.
[0102] The second expansion device 176 may be open, and the flow
rate adjustment valve 174 may be turned off or closed. Thus, a flow
of the refrigerant of the first storage bath connection tube 170
into the low-pressure tube 180 may be restricted to flow into the
heat storage bath 200.
[0103] The refrigerant introduced into the heat storage bath 200
may be condensed while exchanging heat with the thermal energy
storage medium 210. Also, while the refrigerant is condensed, the
thermal energy storage medium 210 may change in phase into a liquid
state.
[0104] The refrigerant condensed in the heat storage bath 200 flows
into the second storage bath connection tube 172 and then is mixed
with the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 in the
second branch part 152.
[0105] The refrigerant mixed in the second branch part 152 is
decompressed in the indoor expansion device 148 and then is
evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger 140.
[0106] That is, when the heat radiation cooling operation is
performed, the outdoor heat exchanger 160 and the heat storage bath
200 function as the condenser, and the indoor heat exchanger 140
functions as the evaporator. Thus, the air-conditioning apparatus
10 may operate by using dual heat sources.
[0107] The refrigerant evaporated in the indoor heat exchanger 140
flows into the eighth connection tube 134 and then is introduced
into the gas/liquid separator 185 through the seventh connection
tube 133 of the second valve device 120. Also, a gaseous
refrigerant of the refrigerant introduced into the gas/liquid
separator 185 may be separated, and the separated gaseous
refrigerant may be suctioned into the compressor 110. Then, the
refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly performed.
[0108] FIG. 5 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when the normal heating operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0109] When the air-conditioning apparatus 10 performs a partial
heating operation (a normal heating operation, a heat accumulation
cooling operation, and a heat radiation heating operation), each of
the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 may operate in a
"second operation mode".
[0110] When the first valve device 120 operates in the second
operation mode, the first and fourth connection tubes 121 and 124
communicate with each other, and the second and third connection
tubes 122 and 123 communicate with each other.
[0111] Also, when the second valve device 130 operates in the
second operation mode, the fifth connection tube 131 and the eighth
connection tube 134 communicate with each other, and the sixth
connection tube 132 and the seventh connection tube 133 communicate
with each other.
[0112] On the other hand, when the air-conditioning apparatus 10
performs a different heating operation to be described later, i.e.,
the defrosting heating operation, the first valve device 120
operates as it would in the "first operation mode", and the second
valve device 130 operates as it would in the "second operation
mode". In such a defrost operation, the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 may operate in a "third operation mode".
[0113] Referring to FIG. 5, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first
expansion device 175 is closed to restrict a flow of the
refrigerant from the first branch part 115 to the first storage
bath connection tube 170.
[0114] That is, at least one portion of the compressed refrigerant
is introduced into the first connection tube 121 of the first valve
device 120 and then is discharged into the fourth connection tube
124 of the first valve device 120. Also, the remaining portion of
the compressed refrigerant is introduced into the fifth connection
tube 131 of the second valve device 130 and then is discharged into
the eighth connection tube 134 of the second valve device 130.
[0115] The refrigerant of the fourth connection tube 124 may be
mixed with the refrigerant of the eighth connection tube 134 and
then introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 140 and condensed in
the indoor heat exchanger 140.
[0116] The refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 140
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the indoor
expansion device 148 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough.
[0117] Also, the second expansion device 176 is closed to restrict
a flow of the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150
into the second storage bath connection tube 172.
[0118] The refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 passes
through the main expansion device 153 and then is introduced into
the outdoor heat exchanger 160 and evaporated. Here, the main
expansion device 153 may be opened by a predetermined opening
degree that is enough to decompress the refrigerant.
[0119] A flow of the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube
150 into the bypass tube 154 may be restricted by the bypass check
valve 155.
[0120] The refrigerant may be evaporated while passing through the
outdoor heat exchanger 160, and the evaporated refrigerant may be
introduced into the second connection tube 122 of the first valve
device 120 via the third branch part 167 and then be discharged
into the third connection tube 123. Here, a flow of the refrigerant
into the sixth connection tube 132 may be restricted by the second
check valve 132a.
[0121] The refrigerant discharged into the third connection tube
123 is introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 through the
low-pressure tube 180. A gaseous refrigerant of the refrigerant
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 may be separated, and
the separated gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned into the
compressor 110. Then, the refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly
performed.
[0122] FIG. 6 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when the heat accumulation heating operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0123] Referring to FIG. 6, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first storage bath
connection tube 170 and the first and second valve devices 120 and
130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first expansion device
175 is opened to guide a flow of the refrigerant from the first
branch part 115 to the first storage bath connection tube 170.
[0124] The refrigerant introduced into the first connection tube
121 of the first valve device 120 is discharged into the fourth
connection tube 124, and the refrigerant introduced into the fifth
connection tube 131 of the second valve device 130 is discharged
into the eighth connection tube 134.
[0125] The refrigerant of the fourth connection tube 124 may be
mixed with the refrigerant of the eighth connection tube 134 and
then introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 140 and condensed in
the indoor heat exchanger 140.
[0126] The refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 140
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the indoor
expansion device 148 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough.
[0127] The second expansion device 176 may be open, and the flow
rate adjustment valve 174 may be turned off or closed. Thus, a flow
of the refrigerant of the first storage bath connection tube 170
into the low-pressure tube 180 may be restricted to flow into the
heat storage bath 200.
[0128] The refrigerant introduced into the heat storage bath 200
may be condensed while exchanging heat with the thermal energy
storage medium 210. Also, while the refrigerant is condensed, the
thermal energy storage medium 210 may change in phase into a liquid
state to store heat.
[0129] The refrigerant condensed in the heat storage bath 200 flows
into the second storage bath connection tube 172 and then is mixed
with the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 in the
second branch part 152.
[0130] The refrigerant mixed in the second branch part 152 is
decompressed in the main expansion device 153 and then is
evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 160. Here, a flow of the
refrigerant into the bypass tube 154 is restricted by the bypass
check valve 155.
[0131] That is, when the heat accumulation heating operation is
performed, the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the heat storage bath
200 function as the condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 160
functions as the evaporator. Thus, the air-conditioning apparatus
10 may operate by using dual loads.
[0132] The refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
is introduced into the second connection tube 122 of the first
valve device 120 via the third branch part 167 and then is
discharged into the third connection tube 123. Here, a flow of the
refrigerant into the sixth connection tube 132 may be restricted by
the second check valve 132a.
[0133] The refrigerant discharged into the third connection tube
123 is introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 through the
low-pressure tube 180. A gaseous refrigerant of the refrigerant
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 may be separated, and
the separated gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned into the
compressor 110. Then, the refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly
performed.
[0134] FIG. 7 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when the heat radiation heating operation of the
regenerative air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to
the first embodiment.
[0135] Referring to FIG. 7, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first
expansion device 175 is closed to restrict a flow of the
refrigerant from the first branch part 115 to the first storage
bath connection tube 170.
[0136] The refrigerant introduced into the first connection tube
121 of the first valve device 120 is discharged into the fourth
connection tube 124, and the refrigerant introduced into the fifth
connection tube 131 of the second valve device 130 is discharged
into the eighth connection tube 134.
[0137] The refrigerant of the fourth connection tube 124 may be
mixed with the refrigerant of the eighth connection tube 134 and
then introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 140 and condensed in
the indoor heat exchanger 140.
[0138] The refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 140
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the indoor
expansion device 148 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough.
[0139] The second expansion device 176 is opened to guide at least
one portion of the refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube
150 into the second storage bath connection tube 172. Here, the
second expansion device 176 may be opened by a predetermined
opening degree that is enough to decompress the refrigerant.
[0140] The refrigerant decompressed in the second expansion device
176 may be introduced into the heat storage bath 200 and then be
evaporated while exchanging heat with the thermal energy storage
medium 210. Also, while the refrigerant is evaporated, the thermal
energy storage medium 210 may change in phase into a solid
state.
[0141] The refrigerant of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 except
for the refrigerant flowing into the second storage bath connection
tube 172 is decompressed in the main expansion device 153 and is
evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 160. Here, a flow of the
refrigerant into the bypass tube 154 is restricted by the bypass
check valve 155.
[0142] That is, when the heat radiation heating operation is
performed, the indoor heat exchanger 140 functions as the
condenser, and the heat storage bath 200 and the outdoor heat
exchanger 140 function as the evaporator. Thus, the
air-conditioning apparatus 10 may operate by using dual heat
sources.
[0143] The refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 is
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 via the low-pressure
tube 180. Here, the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on or
opened to guide a flow of the refrigerant into the low-pressure
tube 180.
[0144] The refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
is introduced into the second connection tube 122 of the first
valve device 120 via the third branch part 167 and then is
discharged into the third connection tube 123. Here, a flow of the
refrigerant into the sixth connection tube 132 may be restricted by
the second check valve 132a.
[0145] The refrigerant discharged into the third connection tube
123 is introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 through the
low-pressure tube 180. A gaseous refrigerant of the refrigerant
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 may be separated, and
the separated gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned into the
compressor 110. Then, the refrigerant cycle may be repeatedly
performed.
[0146] FIG. 8 is a system view illustrating a flow of the
refrigerant when a defrosting heating operation of the regenerative
air-conditioning apparatus is performed according to the first
embodiment.
[0147] Referring to FIG. 8, the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 is divided to flow into the first and second valve
devices 120 and 130 at the first branch part 115. Here, the first
expansion device 175 is closed to restrict a flow of the
refrigerant from the first branch part 115 to the first storage
bath connection tube 170.
[0148] The refrigerant introduced into the first connection tube
121 of the first valve device 120 is discharged into the second
connection tube 122, and the refrigerant introduced into the fifth
connection tube 131 of the second valve device 130 is discharged
into the eighth connection tube 134.
[0149] The refrigerant of the second connection tube 122 may be
introduced into the outdoor heat exchanger 160 via the third branch
part 167 and then is condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 160.
Also, the refrigerant of the eighth connection tube 134 is
introduced into the indoor heat exchanger 140 and then is condensed
in the indoor heat exchanger 140.
[0150] While the refrigerant is condensed in the outdoor heat
exchanger 160, frost attached on the outdoor heat exchanger 160 may
be removed. The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger
160 flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the main
expansion device 153 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough. Also, at least one portion of the refrigerant
of the condensed refrigerant tube 150 may flow into the bypass tube
154.
[0151] The refrigerant condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 140
flows into the condensed refrigerant tube 150. Here, the indoor
expansion device 148 may be fully opened to allow the refrigerant
to pass therethrough.
[0152] The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger 160
and the indoor heat exchanger 140 are mixed with each other in the
second branch part 152, and then the mixed refrigerant is
introduced into the heat storage bath 200. Here, the second
expansion device 176 may be opened by a predetermined opening
degree that is enough to decompress the refrigerant, and thus, the
refrigerant is decompressed in the second expansion device 176 and
is introduced into the heat storage bath 200.
[0153] The refrigerant introduced into the heat storage bath 200
may be evaporated while exchanging heat with the thermal energy
storage medium 210. Also, while the refrigerant is evaporated, the
thermal energy storage medium 210 may change in phase into a solid
state.
[0154] That is, when the defrosting heating operation is performed,
the indoor heat exchanger 140 and the outdoor heat exchanger 160
function as the condenser, and the heat storage bath 200 functions
as the evaporator. Thus, the air-conditioning apparatus 10 operates
to perform the defrosting operation of the outdoor heat exchanger
160.
[0155] The refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 is
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 via the low-pressure
tube 180. Here, the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on or
opened to guide a flow of the refrigerant into the low-pressure
tube 180.
[0156] Also, the refrigerant of the low-pressure tube 180 may be
introduced into the gas/liquid separator 185 to separate a gaseous
refrigerant, and the separated gaseous refrigerant may be suctioned
into the compressor 110. Then, the refrigerant cycle may be
repeatedly performed.
[0157] As described above, according to the operation mode of the
air-conditioning apparatus, the air-conditioning apparatus may
operate by using the dual loads or heat sources. Also, when the
heat operation is performed, the defrosting operation may be
performed.
[0158] Hereinafter, a method for controlling the air-conditioning
apparatus according to the current embodiment will be
described.
[0159] FIGS. 9 and 10 are flowcharts illustrating a method of
controlling the regenerative air-conditioning apparatus according
to the first embodiment.
[0160] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, when an air-conditioning
apparatus 10 operates to drive a compressor 110, an operation mode
of the air-conditioning apparatus 10 is determined in operations
S11 and S12.
[0161] When the air-conditioning apparatus 10 operates in a cooling
operation mode, first and second valve devices 120 and 130 are
switched into a first operation mode. In operations S13 and S14,
whether the air-conditioning apparatus 10 operates in a normal
cooling operation mode is determined.
[0162] When the air-conditioning apparatus 10 operates in the
normal cooling operation mode, first and second expansion devices
175 and 176 are closed.
[0163] Thus, in operations S15 and S16, a flow of the refrigerant
into first and second storage bath connection tubes 170 and 172 is
restricted to prevent the refrigerant from being introduced into
the heat storage bath 200.
[0164] In operation S17, a flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned
off, and the refrigerant does not flow into a low-pressure tube
180.
[0165] On the other hand, in operations S18, and S19, when it is
determined that a cold energy accumulation cooling is performed in
the operation S15, the first expansion device 175 is closed to
restrict a flow of the refrigerant into the first storage bath
connection tube 170.
[0166] In operations S20 and S21, the second expansion device 176
is opened by a predetermined opening degree that is enough to
decompress the refrigerant to introduce the refrigerant into the
heat storage bath 200 after decompressing the refrigerant, and then
the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on to allow the
refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 to flow into a
low-pressure tube 180.
[0167] When it is determined that a cold energy discharge cooling
operation is performed in the operation S15, the first and second
expansion devices 175 and 176 are opened to allow at least one
portion of the refrigerant compressed in the compressor 110 to flow
into the first and second storage bath connection tubes 170 and
172, In this process, in operations S22, S23, and S24, the
refrigerant may be condensed within the heat storage bath 200.
[0168] Also, in operation S25, the flow rate adjustment valve 174
is turned off to restrict a flow of the refrigerant of the first
storage bath connection tube 170 into the low-pressure tube
180.
[0169] When it is determined that the air-conditioning apparatus 10
operates in the heating operation mode S31 in the operation S13,
whether the operation mode is the normal heating operation mode is
determined.
[0170] When it is determined that the normal heating operation mode
is performed, the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 are
switched into the second operation mode in operation S33. Also, the
first and second expansion devices 175 and 176 are closed. Thus, in
operation S34, a flow of the refrigerant into first and second
storage bath connection tubes 170 and 172 is restricted to prevent
the refrigerant from being introduced into the heat storage bath
200.
[0171] In operation S35, a flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned
off, and the refrigerant does not flow into a low-pressure tube
180.
[0172] When it is determined that the air-conditioning apparatus 10
operates in the heat accumulation heating operation mode in the
operation S32, the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 are
switched into the second operation mode in operations S36 and S37.
The first and second expansion devices 175 and 176 are opened to
allow at least one portion of the refrigerant compressed in the
compressor 110 to flow into the first and second storage bath
connection tubes 170 and 172. In this process, in operation S38,
the refrigerant may be condensed within the heat storage bath
200.
[0173] In operation S39, the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is
turned off, and the refrigerant does not flow into a low-pressure
tube 180.
[0174] When it is determined that the air-conditioning apparatus 10
operates in the heat radiation heating operation mode in the
operation S36, the first and second valve devices 120 and 130 are
switched into the second operation mode in operations S40 and
S41.
[0175] In operation S42, the first expansion device 175 is closed
to restrict a flow of the refrigerant into the first storage bath
connection tube 170.
[0176] In operations S43 and S44, the second expansion device 176
is opened by a predetermined opening degree that is enough to
decompress the refrigerant to introduce the refrigerant into the
heat storage bath 200 after decompressing the refrigerant, and then
the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on to allow the
refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 to flow into a
low-pressure tube 180.
[0177] When it is determined that the air-conditioning apparatus 10
operates in a defrosting heating operation mode in the operation
S40, the first valve device 120 is switched into the first
operation mode, and the second valve device 130 is switched into
the second operation mode in operation S45 and S46.
[0178] In operation S47, the first expansion device 175 is closed
to restrict a flow of the refrigerant into the first storage bath
connection tube 170.
[0179] In operations S48 and S49, the second expansion device 176
is opened by a predetermined opening degree that is enough to
decompress the refrigerant to introduce the refrigerant into the
heat storage bath 200 after decompressing the refrigerant, and then
the flow rate adjustment valve 174 is turned on to allow the
refrigerant evaporated in the heat storage bath 200 to flow into a
low-pressure tube 180.
[0180] Hereinafter, descriptions will be made according to a second
embodiment. Since the present embodiment is the same as the first
embodiment except for portions of the constitutions, different
parts between the first and second embodiments will be described
principally, and descriptions of the same parts will be denoted by
the same reference numerals and descriptions of the first
embodiment.
[0181] FIG. 11 is a system view of a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus according to a second embodiment.
[0182] Referring to FIG. 11, a regenerative air-conditioning
apparatus 10' according to a second embodiment includes a first
capillary 224a disposed in a fourth connection tube 124 and a
second capillary 232a disposed in a sixth connection tube 132.
[0183] The first capillary 224a may guide one-directional flow of a
refrigerant in the fourth connection tube 124, i.e., a flow from a
first valve device 120 to an eighth connection tube 134 and
restrict an opposite flow of the refrigerant, i.e., a flow from the
eighth connection tube 134 to the second valve device 130.
[0184] The second capillary 232a may guide one-directional flow of
the refrigerant in the sixth connection tube 132, i.e., a flow from
a second valve device 130 to a third branch part 167 and restrict
an opposite flow of the refrigerant, i.e., a flow from the third
branch part 167 to the second valve device 130.
[0185] The check valves 124a and 132a according to the first
embodiment and the capillaries 224a and 232a according to the
second embodiment may be called a "backflow prevention device" in
that they guide the one-directional flow of the refrigerant to
prevent the refrigerant from flowing backward.
[0186] According to the embodiments, the heat (or the cool) energy
may be stored in the heat accumulation bath (or the cold energy
accumulation bath), and then the refrigeration cycle may operate by
using the heat or cold energy stored in the heat accumulation bath.
Particularly, the dual heat source/dual load type air-conditioning
apparatus using the heat accumulation bath may be provided to
improve the operation efficiency and reduce the power consumption
in the air-conditioning apparatus.
[0187] In detail, when the heat accumulation heating operation is
performed, the indoor heat exchanger and the heat accumulation bath
may function as the condenser to realize the air-conditioning
apparatus using the dual loads. Also, when the heat radiation
heating operation is performed, the outdoor heat exchanger and the
heat accumulation bath may function as the evaporator to realize
the air-conditioning apparatus using the dual heat sources. Also,
when the defrosting operation is performed, the outdoor heat
exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger may function as the
condenser to easily perform the defrosting operation for the
outdoor heat exchanger.
[0188] Also, when the heat accumulation cooling operation is
performed, the indoor heat exchanger and the heat accumulation bath
may function as the evaporator to realize the air-conditioning
apparatus using the dual loads. Also, when the heat radiation
cooling operation is performed, the outdoor heat exchanger and the
heat accumulation bath may function as the condenser to realize the
air-conditioning apparatus using the dual heat sources.
[0189] Also, the slurry of tetra n-butyl ammonium bromide,
[(CH.sub.3(CH.sub.2).sub.3].sub.4NBr (TBAB) that is a phase change
material may be used as the heat accumulation material to generate
the phase change temperature that is greater than that of water,
thereby improving the function of the heat accumulation bath.
[0190] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a
number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood
that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by
those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope
of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various
variations and modifications are possible in the component parts
and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within
the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims.
In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts
and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to
those skilled in the art.
* * * * *